Signs of Elder Abuse
Item | Sign |
|---|---|
Behavior | Withdrawal by the patient Infantilization of the patient by the caregiver Caregiver’s insistence on providing the history |
General appearance | Poor hygiene (eg, unkempt appearance, uncleanliness) Inappropriate dress |
Skin and mucous membranes | Poor skin turgor or other signs of dehydration Bruises, particularly multiple bruises in various stages of evolution Pressure ulcers Deficient care of established skin lesions |
Head and neck | Traumatic alopecia (distinguished from male- or female-pattern alopecia by distribution) |
Trunk | Contusions (shape may suggest implement—eg, utensil, stick, belt) |
GU region | Rectal bleeding Vaginal bleeding Pressure ulcers Infestations |
Extremities | Wrist or ankle lesions suggesting use of restraints or immersion burns (ie, in a stocking-glove distribution) |
Musculoskeletal system | Previously undiagnosed fracture Unexplained pain Unexplained gait disturbance |
Mental and emotional health | Depressive symptoms Anxiety |